Confirmed rabies in domestic cat, Michigan Health officials say

BIRMINGHAM, MI – Oakland County health officials are urging pet owners to make sure their cats and dogs have up-to-date rabies vaccinations after a Birmingham domestic cat is confirmed to have contracted the disease.

"People and their pets are urged to avoid meeting strangers and keep their pets protected by being vaccinated," says Lee-Ann Stafford, a Oakland County health officer.

"Fury is a fatal disease for both humans and pets and there is no known cure. "

Confirmation in a cat case follows in the heels of confirmed rabies cases in four bats and 1

1 skunks in Auckland County earlier this year, according to Associated Press.

Last month, the dead sank in West Bloomfield, tested positive for West Bloomfield. Other cities with confirmed cases of skunking include Troy, Rochester Hills and Southfield, AP said.

rabies can be fatal to humans, but can be prevented if a person is given a one d medical treatment as soon as they are exposed.

Dogs and cats were recently vaccinated against this virus during their regular vet visits, but health officials recommend that people keep their animals on a leash when walking outside, as this will limit any encounters with wildlife.

a much better chance of meeting a wild animal that can be sick or aggressive, "said Bob Gat, manager of the Auckland County Animal and Shelter Center. "Keeping your cats is the best way to keep them safe."

Symptoms in wild animals include slow and unusual movements, lots of drooling, aggression and no apparent fear of humans.

Auckland County health officials offer these tips:

"If you or your pet is bitten or scratched by a wild animal or animal unknown to you, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical or veterinary assistance immediately. , even if your animal

'The rabies virus is found in the saliva of infected animals and spreads through bites or scratches. To report potential rabies exposure, call the Health Department at 248-858-1286. If you are bitten after Health Division hours, seek medical attention for wound care. Your provider will work with the Health Department to evaluate the bite and evaluate for potential rabies exposure. “